<scp>COVID</scp> ‐19 and the extended family: Insights from emerging adult experiences

Abstract Objective This qualitative study describes U.S. emerging adults' perceptions of communication and relationship quality with extended family members in the context of the COVID‐19 pandemic. Background Research on the pandemic has explored changes in emerging adults and their nuclear family interactions, but there is a gap in understanding extended family relationships, which are often an overlooked protective factor for emerging adults. Method Survey data were collected from 189 U.S. emerging adults ( M age = 24.0 years; SD = 3.2) in August 2022. Thematic analysis was used to analyze open‐ended prompts asking participants to describe their extended family relationships during the COVID‐19 pandemic. Results The analysis resulted in five themes: (1) disconnection and conflict, (2) relational maintenance and intentional connection, (3) the dominance of online communication, (4) generational shifts accelerated, and (5) perceptions of long‐term impact. Results revealed the widespread perception of relationship deterioration, with a minority describing improved relationships. Conclusion These findings contribute to our understanding of the impact of the pandemic on family functioning during the critical life stage of emerging adulthood. Implications Family and mental health professionals are encouraged to invite discussion of extended family with emerging adults to resolve conflict and strengthen bonds.